Facts and Figures: Young Canadians Helping Out.

Did you know that...

  • 83% if Canadians - about 21 million of us over the age of 15 - make some financial or in-kind donation to charitable and non-profit organizations, and

  • over 34% (7.5 million) of us volunteer our time and skills to groups and organizations.

 "The greatest benefit I've had from volunteering is how I feel about myself.  I went to Edmonton to the IAVE (International Association for Volunteer Effort) Biannual World Conference.  It was my first time being away from home without a family member or a friend with me.  I met new people and had a lot of fun while I was learning more about volunteering/  After that experience, I'm confident that I can meet people, learn new things and have fun anytime."

Karen Bonenfant, Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Not only that...

  • Volunteers contribute 1.1 billion hours of their time yearly - the equivalent of 578,000 full time jobs!

Now, that's impressive!  But where do young Canadians fit into the picture?

Over the last ten years, there has been a substantial increase in the volunteering rate among 15-24 year olds.  In fact, the rate has almost doubled from 18% in 1987 to 33% in 1997.  This age group now accounts for 18% of the entire volunteer pool, and it's obvious that their youthful energy and enthusiasm is a vast asset.  On average, experiences tend to encourage people to volunteer for life in one way or another. 

Canadian youth are involved in a broad variety of volunteer activities: campaigning; fundraising; organizing; teaching; coaching; preparing, serving, and delivering food; and working to protect the environment.  Their motivation stems from a belief in specific causes, a wish to improve their employment opportunities, and a desire to explore and use their skills and abilities.